U17 Girlz focused on beating Honduras

Jamaica's under-17 Reggae Girlz face off against Group D leaders Honduras in the final Concacaf U17 Women World Cup qualifying group match, to decide who advance to the final round at the Stadion Gulliermo Prospero Trinidad in Aruba today.

Jamaica and Honduras will meet in the feature game at 7 p.m., while Guyana, who are still in with a chance, play St Vincent in the early game at 2 p.m.

Honduras lead the group with maximum nine points, followed by Jamaica on seven, Guyana four, Aruba three, while St Vincent are without a point.

With only the group winners assured a place in the next stage, a win for the young Reggae Girlz would secure their spot, although a draw could possibly suffice, as one of two best second place teams.

Coach of the young Girlz, Marlon Hylton, said they are focused and motivated.

"The mood in the camp is positive and focused. The players are motivated and understand the importance of the match,"he said..

"Our intention is to compete with discipline, confidence and intensity. Honduras is a strong, a well organised team.

"They are physical, disciplined and very competitive, so we know it will be a tough challenge," he commented.

Defeat for the young Girlz could also threaten their place as a best second place team, with Guyana likely to get a win against the pointless St Vincent.

"We need to stay compact defensively, be brave in possession and be more clinical in front of goal," Hylton stated.

"If we execute our game plan and maintain our focus for 90 minutes, we give ourselves the best chance of getting the result we need."

livingston.scott@gleanerjm.com